The Glass Between the Tides: An epic dark fantasy romance

by Hayley Pierce

Sage survived betrayal, loss, and revolution, yet victory brings no peace. With Dervla crowned ruler, Trevesiga is starving, unrest is growing, and power is once again slipping into dangerous hands. Shaken by grief, and haunted by her past mistakes, Sage no longer trusts her instincts—a weakness her enemies are quick to exploit.

When unstable magic threatens the fragile balance of the realm, Sage is forced back into Dervla’s orbit, and sent to the neighbouring kingdom of Aiche to secure a fragile political alliance. Accompanied by Kitto, a volatile and unpredictable presence, Sage must navigate treacherous politics, and a new magical threat that could devastate both kingdoms.

Along the way, she finds an unlikely ally in Trevelyan, a roguish ex-pirate with a painful past of his own. As danger closes in, their shared scars forge a slow-burn connection, and help Sage relearn how to trust herself, and her heart, again.

With two kingdoms on the brink, and tyranny rising once more, Sage must reclaim her confidence, embrace her power, and decide whether she will be used . . . or if she will rise.

The Glass Between the Tides is the second book in the Lightless Alchemist series, and perfect for fans

High-stakes fantasyPolitical intrigueForbidden magicSlow-burn romanceSTEM-minded FMC

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 26, 2026

Reviews

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and was not paid for my review.

***
Sage survived the revolution, but peace is proving more dangerous than the war. With Trevesiga starving and her confidence shattered, she’s sent on a high-stakes diplomatic mission to the kingdom of Aiche to stop a rising magical threat. Forced to navigate treacherous politics alongside a volatile companion and a roguish ex-pirate, Sage must reclaim her power before two kingdoms fall to tyranny.
- Political Intrigue
- Slow-burn Romance
- Roguish MMC
- STEM-minded FMC
- High-stakes Fantasy
***

We pick up right where we left of in book one, thankfully, as that cliffhanger had me screaming at a wall and ranting at anyone who would listen. But the cliffhanger that broke my heart, well its not done with me yet.

Fair warning, this book deals with serious and heartbreaking topics which can be difficult to read about – please check the trigger warnings and be kind to your mental health. That being said, I was genuinely touched and impressed with how well Hayley covers these subjects. As something that is far too close to home, it felt emotional but also provided a shared strength to see it written about with such honesty. Sage’s grief is complex and paralysing, it sinks its claws in, and takes monumental strength for her to slowly break out of it.

Sage’s journey through grief, rebuilding relationships with friends that seemed damaged beyond repair, and slowly starting to fight for her beliefs make this book emotional and powerful. We see the political machinations of the Concord, new power players on the board, their motivations and ambitions swirling together over the backdrop of a failing and struggling society.

The introduction of the dashing pirate, reformed of course, to Sage is done so so well. And my, oh my, does he draw you in as well as Sage. Trevaylan is strong, steady and safe, whilst also being mischievous and cheeky. He is so clearly smitten but respectful and protective of our girl that its just so damned gorgeous watching their relationship progress. The one bed trope here is not what you might hope for, and yet, so much more. If you want quick, hot, and heavy then this isn’t your vibe. If you are desperate for delicious, slow, intentional, a safe space with the body of a god, whilst he yearns like no one else. Then this is the one for you.

The story is woven so well, with plenty of twists and turns, you are constantly coming up with theories and immediately doubting them. Expect STEM, politics, high-stakes, magic and much more, because book two absolutely delivers. Although, me and this author are gonna need to have words about the trust issues she is creating with her endings. Because, seriously, HOW am I supposed to just wait for book three?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Could. Not. Put. It. Down.

[Astraeagone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The PERFECT sequel to The Alchemy Before the Dawn!!

A huge thank you to Hayley Pierce for the ARC of The Glass Between the Tides in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.

First of all, please please read the trigger warnings, especially if you normally don’t. Hayley wrote about a really sensitive topic with such grace and compassion and empathy, I felt Sage’s pain as if it were my own and I had tears streaming down my face. It’s ok if the topic isn’t one you can face right now.

Now to the review - I was so excited for this second book and it exceeded any and all expectations I had. Truly. It’s such a fantastic sequel and took the story in great direction. If you’re a fan of heartbreaking, high-stakes fantasy with a good dose of romance and gripping plot lines, this is the series for you.

Sage’s story continues and wow is she a survivor. Events begin directly from book 1, with victory hurting in more ways than one. Our FMC begins to find herself again, her determination shines through even though she’s having trouble trusting herself initially. She finds solace in Trevelyan and builds bridges with certain characters from book 1, before journeying to the kingdom of Aiche in an attempt to secure a fragile alliance and eliminate a threat that could lead to ruin.

✨Tropes:
* High-stakes fantasy
* Political intrigue
* Forbidden magic
* Slow-burn romance
* STEM-minded FMC


✨My Best Bits:

- I did not predict the direction the story took and I loved that so much!

- A certain MMC… how could he NOT be included in my best bits?! I absolutely love Sage and Trevelyan together, and their relationship builds at an adorable pace. I found him to be so patient and protective, exactly what Sage needed.

- The characters were actually given time to process all of the events of book 1. It’s so relatable to read about a strong, intelligent and headstrong character such as Sage take her time to get back to being strong, intelligent and headstrong after trauma and grief.

- The confusion followed by the yearning followed by the falling. That’s all I’ll say on that!

- The description and imagery I loved in book 1 continued into book 2. Book 1 world building was so good that as soon as I began book 2, I was immediately transported back into the world despite a 7 month gap between reads.

✨Overall:

I’m still thinking about this series! I flew through it, I couldn’t put it down. I’m so eagerly awaiting the third and final book in the series, I can’t wait to read the conclusion of Sage’s story!

[Yolanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I posted on social media that I was starting this book and mentioned how worried I was after the devastating ending of book one, the author casually appeared in the comments and said something along the lines of, “Remember there’s another book after book two, so don’t come for me.”

Naturally, this did nothing to calm my nerves.

I had also seen hints somewhere, either in a group chat or a newsletter (at this point my memory refuses to cooperate), that the beginning of this book would be emotionally rough. And yes, that warning was accurate. The opening hits hard. I actually had to put the book down for a short break just to process it. Not for long though, because the story was far too compelling and I needed to know where everything was going.

One of my favorite things about this installment was how much the world expanded. We travel to a new land that feels completely different from what we saw in the first book. It’s fascinating, a little cultish (just the vibe I was getting), and honestly not somewhere I would personally want to visit, but it added so much depth to the story.

I also discovered that my dislike for the villains had not reached its maximum level in book one. Apparently there was still room for it to grow. I genuinely hate them even more now, which is both impressive and slightly concerning. What is wrong with these people?

Going into this book, I also wondered if the new MMC could possibly live up to how much I adored Eskar in the first installment. I was wrong about that too. Trevelyan absolutely won me over. His banter alone was enough to seal the deal. I do feel a little guilty admitting that I may like him even more than Eskar… but at this point I’m blaming the author for putting me in this situation.

And yes, as I got closer to the end of the book, I was preparing myself to go find that earlier comment and start demanding explanations. Thankfully, while the ending isn’t the happy resolution I would love for Sage (seriously, can this girl catch a break?), it wasn’t nearly as emotionally devastating as the first book. That alone feels like a small victory.

If you haven’t started this series yet, go move The Alchemy Before the Dawn (formerly Aubade Rising) to the very top of your TBR. You are going to want to be ready for this one.

[Poppy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am foaming at the mouth for book 3!

I haven't long read book 1 even though I bought it as soon as it came out, I have a habit of delaying reading books I know I'm going to seriously love and I was right! It was SO good! and then I got an ARC of book 2 and that 1 week wait was painful, and now I'm dreading the wait for book 2 after that ending! I'm so glad it's going to be a trilogy so I will get all of the answers in the next book!

I had so many theories while reading this from book 1 and new theories from book 2, some right, some wrong, and some could still go either way. I'm dying to find out which! Haley has done such and amazing job with both of these instalments.

I absolutely love the main characters and the side characters alike, meanwhile... the. villains. in. this. book! OMG can Haley write some seriously vexing villains!!! I hate them, I hate them with a vengeance!

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to arc read this beauty and you can bet your backside I'm going to be keeping a mildly obsessed eye out for any and every mention of book 3... patiently! no pressure Haley! We do not like our authors burnt out!

BE AWARE!!! Content warning -

Please check the content warnings and if you find pregnancy loss as a personal trigger consider skipping chapter 2 as it is quite descriptive. There are mentions throughout the book on the topic that may be destressing to people who are particularly sensitive to the topic. While this is a tricky and sensitive topic I do think that Haley has done such a good job of writing it in all of it's raw, messy, painfully traumatic beauty.

[Megan Church · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Glass Between the Tides (ARC)

I was incredibly grateful to receive an ARC of this sequel, and Hayley Pierce did not disappoint.

The Glass Between the Tides picks up immediately after the events of The Alchemy Before the Dawn, and before anything else, I need to stress: check the trigger warnings. There is one scene in particular that may be difficult for some readers, though it’s written with care and compassion.

Back at the palace, we see the full emotional fallout of book one. Sage is grieving, hollowed out, and a shadow of who she once was. But the world doesn’t slow down for her. With the help of Haelyn, Howl, the Principal of the Partargon Academy, and a new guard, Trevelyn, Sage is pulled back into political intrigue and sent to Aiche to continue her work with Serpentine. She’s also carrying out a covert mission on behalf of the Principal.

This sequel widens the world beautifully. Each town and city feels distinct, and the new cast blends seamlessly with returning characters… though a few of them set off all my internal alarms. The character work remains a standout: Haelyn is still changed by the trauma of book one but hasn’t lost her humanity (even if she now pairs it with a side of vengeance). Sage, too, is sharper, harder, no longer the naïve girl we first met. I did occasionally wish she’d throw a punch, especially where Kitto is concerned, and her stubborn streak tested my patience, but it never pulled me out of the story.

Overall, this was an addictive, emotionally charged sequel with a finale that hits hard in its own right. I loved being back in this world, and I’m already desperate for book three.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW, what a continuation from the first book! At first, it's a bit of a slow burn as the story takes time to explore the aftermath and emotional fallout from The Alchemy Before Dawn. The characters are still reeling from past events, and you can really feel the weight of their choices and the consequences that linger in every chapter. This careful pacing in the beginning allows for richer character development and sets the stage for bigger things to come.

But once things start moving, they truly take off. The plot quickly builds momentum, sweeping you into a whirlwind of intrigue and magical conflict. The stakes feel higher than ever, and the world expands in fascinating ways. I especially enjoyed the political machinations and the clever ways elemental magic is woven into the story’s conflicts.

If you love high-stakes fantasy with plenty of political intrigue, a dash of elemental magic, and the allure of a “reformed” sexy pirate, this book will absolutely deliver. The character dynamics are fantastic, and the relationships—both old and new—add a lot of emotional depth to the story.

As you get closer to the end, the story becomes even more unpredictable and twisty. The last few chapters are especially gripping, filled with revelations and cliffhangers that left me on the edge of my seat. Just when you think you know where things are headed, the plot takes another sharp turn.

Needless to say, I am so ready for the third installment. This series just keeps getting better, and I can’t wait to see how the characters handle everything that’s coming their way!

[Zoe Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌊 The Glass Between the Tides ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

I had the opportunity to read an ARC of The Glass Between the Tides by Hayley Pierce ahead of its release, and I really enjoyed returning to this world.

One of my favourite aspects of this book was the character development, particularly Trevelyan’s (MMC). Watching his character evolve throughout the story added so much emotional depth, and I found myself becoming even more attached to him and his cheeky demeanour as the book progressed.

I also loved seeing Sage’s (FMC) journey after everything she experienced in book one. Seeing her come back stronger through her grief felt emotional, believable, and incredibly satisfying to read. Her growth throughout the story was one of the standout elements for me.

The pacing worked really well throughout the book. The story flowed naturally, balancing emotional moments, character development, and plot progression without ever feeling too rushed or too slow.

The yearning between the MMC and FMC had me completely hooked. The tension and emotional pull between them was done so well. The slow progression of their relationship kept me fully invested the entire time.

There was also one particular plot twist that genuinely caught me off guard - I honestly didn’t see it coming at all!

Overall, The Glass Between the Tides was an emotional and engaging sequel with strong character growth, compelling relationships, and a storyline that kept me invested from beginning to end. I’m really excited to see what comes next from Hayley!

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up immediately after the fallout of the first one. Sage is forced to confront betrayal and personal loss, coping with the aftermath in different ways that feel both painful and believable. Her journey back to any sense of normalcy doesn’t happen overnight - what she went through leaves a lasting mark, which made her experience feel very relatable.

Slowly, she begins to find her footing again, though not without new challenges. Not only does she have to face the person who betrayed her, she also feels isolated and cut off from the things that once gave her hope and happiness. When she meets a new guard, she gradually starts to open up again, stepping out of the shell she’s retreated into.

When a message arrives one day, Sage sees it as a chance to leave her current situation behind. She accepts the offer of help and agrees to take part in a mission - one that brings an entirely different set of challenges. It pushes her not only to fight for a better future for her people, but also to allow herself to trust again and open her heart to this handsome guard.

If felt like a personal journey of growth for Sage in finding her strength and happiness again. It took me bit to get into it again, but once I felt connected to the story again, I coudn't put it down.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant follow up to the first book. The ending of the first book left me devastated. I felt Sage’s pain and it was good to see that the author allowed her time to grieve and come back to herself. Once she did she was the same intelligent, strong, determined Sage from the first book. The villains are even worse in this book, if that’s even possible. I felt guilty at liking the new main MMC, Trevelyan, after loving Eskar in the first book. But Trevelyan won my heart with his banter and his protectiveness. There are so many twists and turns and unexpected situations that arise in both this book and the first book.

The magic system is fully unique, and the world building is wonderful as we ventured out into another kingdom and were at sea for a while. Just amazing, atmospheric and dreamlike. And once again, we are left with a completely devastating cliffhanger of an ending. Book 3 better be on the way!

*Please read the trigger warnings for both books as there are some sensitive topics included.
High-Stakes

Political Intrigue
Lies and Backstabbing
Forbidden Magic
Alchemist / STEM FMC
“One Boat”
Slow Burn Romance

Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Myriam · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the end of the last book I was worried that Sage was going to turn bad. Luckily the author was not that mean and our clever character still has lots of plans and secrets. We do start off with some well deserved grieving, which is very understandable. And through this some relationships get a bit strained.

This was a great continuation to the series and it brought so much more to this world. In terms of magic and kingdoms, we just learned a lot more.

Sage grow more and more, with a goal in mind and just trying to figure out what she can do to succeed. During this we also meet some new characters, which includes a pirate. Yes, a pirate, and he’s great. Although he is employed by Dervla, he does grow closer to Sage. And a relationship is formed. It’s very slow, and mostly just friendly at first. And any romance between them is not done quickly, since she is still grieving and he is new.


This book brought so much to the first one. Once again I need the next book immediately, especially with that end. I’m getting invested in Sage’s story.


I appreciate having received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rosie_is_reading_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hayley has done it again, what a wonderful book. I was left reeling from the ending of book 1, and book 2 in the Lightless Alchemist series doesn't disappoint. And yes, there will be a book 3 because I need answers to that ending. Another shocking ending leaving me foaming at the mouth for more!

I loved the world building in this book, it feels like we know so much more as readers now but there is still so much to learn and resolve.

Can we take a moment to reflect on Eskar (if you know you know), but then can we talk about Trevelyan?! After everything that happened in book 1, I wasn't sure if I would like a new MMC but I was wrong, Trevelyan is great. Got to love a reformed pirate. I need more of his backstory, I feel it could be very interesting.

Sage goes through so much, yet she deserves happiness and love 😭

The start of the book is heavy hitting and so emotional so be warned of that and make sure you read trigger warnings.

Thank you Hayley for an advance reader copy of this book, it was an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish in the best way.

[Vinoshini Nedincheliyin · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are books you read…
and then there are books that feel like they’re watching you back.
The Glass Between the Tides doesn’t rush you.
It pulls you in slowly, like the tide curling around your ankles… and before you realize it, you’re already too deep.
The writing?
Soft. Lyrical. Almost hypnotic.
But underneath that beauty is something sharp, something quietly unsettling. 🌊
This isn’t a plot-heavy, chaos-every-page kind of story.
It’s a slow unravel. A quiet storm.
The kind where you don’t even notice the tension building until it’s sitting in your chest.
You don’t just follow the main character…
you feel her slipping between versions of herself.
Past. Present. Something in-between.
And the ocean?
Not just a setting.
It’s a presence. A witness. Maybe even a keeper of things that should’ve stayed buried.

✨ If you like:
atmospheric, almost dreamlike storytelling
soft unease instead of loud horror
stories that feel more like experiences than plots
this one will sink its teeth in… gently.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
beautiful, haunting, but you need patience for the slow burn

[Genevieve Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC eBook Review

I was a little nervous going into this book because I didn’t enjoy the first one as much as I’d hoped. But the further I got into the story, the more I understood what Hayley Pierce was trying to achieve.

About halfway through The Glass Between the Tides, I kept thinking the first book should have been more of a prequel — like a book 0.5 to set up the real series. But by the time I finished this one, I completely changed my mind. This is absolutely book two.

Sage needed to go through all that heartbreak in order to find the strength she needed for this next part of her journey. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I’d definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand, because these characters go through a lot of heavy and emotional moments.

The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is Trevelyan. I truly fell in love with this man, but I wish he’d been introduced as a side character in the first book — quietly in the background, slowly falling for Sage before she even met him. That said, Hayley has written him beautifully.

And that cliffhanger? I’m still reeling. I need book three immediately, please.

All I’m asking for now is one more death, one life sentence, one (or more) babies, and one happily ever after. Thank you kindly.

[Erin Lawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐ review from ARC given by the author.

Book 1 was a ride and ended on a heartbreaking turn. I was thrilled to dive into book 2 and it took a while for me to get into it.

The start of the book has Sage going through some super heavy grief, which is understandable. The grief seemed to last 3/4th of the book until she finally had purpose again and a mission.

It wasn't until that 75% mark that I really got into the book and by that time, the book ended and more surprises and twists and now we wait for book 3.

Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed finding out more of the mystery from book 1 and we are even introduced to another kingdom and another mystery to solve. I just want Kitto to get what's coming to her and for Sage to be left alone. That girl has been through it.

I loved Trevelyan and he was so refreshing to read. Ex-pirate? Say less!

[Miriam Oglesby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hayley Pierce has done it again. Another masterpiece in this series! Beautifully written. So many twists and turns I wasn't expecting.

🧪 FMC in STEM
⛵ Spirited adventures
🥵 Steamy romance
✨ Surprises galore

After reading (and adoring) The Alchemy Before The Dawn, this was the sequel I had been waiting for: accompanying Sage on her next steps. Discovering more about the rules of this world including the elemental magic, academic turned teacher, further research and friendships... you're in for another wild ride.

The more the book progressed, the more I was completely absorbed in this world. Marvelous!

Please note the content warning for this novel. I admired how honestly the topic of miscarriage and loss were included in the narrative and I could identify particularly well with that character arc.

[Netty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @hayleypiercewrites for the eARC 😊

The Glass Between Tides by Hayley Pierce

This follows straight on from The Alchemy Before Dawn and the trauma & heartache for Sage doesn't let up in the first part of the story!

The political manoeuvring and strategy continues on within the council & Sage has to keep up the fight for magical equality. Complicated by the introduction of Trevelyan the ex-pirate and the interference of Kitto.

The story is a slower paced readjustment of Sage as she works through what has happened to her and who she can trust along the way and I love that development for her character 😊

Hayley delivers yet another cliffhanger ending, ready for book 3 in the series!

Release date: 26th May 🥳

#fantasyromance #arcreviews #HayleyPierce #TheGlasdBeteeenTides #nettyslibrary

[Mirella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of Advanced Reader Copy Recieved by Author

Heavy, emotional, and definitely ambitious. It really shines in its character work. Sage’s grief and pain feels raw and real, and it gives the story a strong emotional backbone. The magic system is creative and interesting, and when it’s shown in action, it’s pretty cool.
That said, the story can feel pretty dense at times. Took me some time to get through it there’s a lot of politics, lore, and moving pieces, which can make it hard to keep track of everything or fully absorb big moments. Some parts might’ve hit harder with a bit more breathing room.
Overall, it’s a gripping but complex read rewarding if you’re willing to stay focused, but not always easy to follow. Regardless I had fun digesting the all the moving parts that made it what it is.

[Caroline Reza · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Plot Thickens!!

This was beautifully written with suspense, heartache, healing and downright WTF moments. The character development of Sage makes you feel all her feelings the good, the bad and the ugly. At times I wished that I could just pull her out of the book and hug her like you would a friend in need. While you are wanted to see an end of other characters! One character in particular, will have you on guard and a desire to see their plan unravel...hopefully that will be in the last book. Because guess what...we end with a cliffhanger of a mother!!

Yes peeps, you will be gutted and left asking questions. Soooooooo many questions, that I cannot wait to read in the final installment of this series. If you haven't started yet...get going!!! Happy reading :D

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky enough to be apart of Hayley's Street team and was given an ARC of The Glass Between the Tides

This book did NOT disappoint!!!! It drew me in from the start.
There are definitely parts that hit the feelings hard but I love all that emotion that's in there, it's always a great book when it can pull all the emotions out of you.
Hayley's writing is so good. I love that new characters are brought in and all the world building, with new places being explored

Sage is such a cool FMC and I love that we have a new MMC that we can adore after the sadness from the 1st book.

That ending though!! We're really needing you to start on the 3rd installment immediately Hayley 🤣

[Vickie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up directly from book 1! Thank goodness!! LOL ..
Sage comes into her own in this book. She grows so much that what previously might have went over her head she deals with head on.
My heart broke for her in the beginning with what she was dealing with and the decisions she made .
Then to lose it all again at the end. I need to know what happens next, does Trevelyan find her in time. Does Kitto cause more pain... Hurry and help!!!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me feeling all the feels…. Anger, frustration, hatred and heartbreak and on the flip side…. promise if more to come and some healing for the FMC… though that ending wtf. I really enjoy Hayley’s writing. I loved the first book and this book was the perfect continuation. I can’t wait to see how this story continues.

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review

Ah, this was a great read! I enjoyed the first one but I enjoyed this one much more! We got to meet new characters, venture new land and see a new romance blossom. I admire Sage for going after what she wants and feels in her gut is right. She goes through so much in this book and is still a badass. and THAT ENDING! Can’t wait for book 3!

[Ivy Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sequel! I loved the first book, and I wasn’t sure what to expect after that crazy cliffhanger, but this was even better than I expected. Honestly such a joy to read, I couldn’t put it down. It was great to explore more of the world and new characters were introduced too, with yet another insane cliffhanger- anxiously awaiting book three, I need to know what happens!

[Emma Schissel · Rating 4 out of 5]

**received as an ARC and leaving this review voluntarily


much better than the first one!

i do have beef with her killing eskar in book 1 though. i’m sorry but what’s the point of her having his magic if not to be able to bring him back???

[Eva Simon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this book. The emotions I have with this series. I could not put it down.i enjoy the research and developments the fmc goes through giving us a good look at the details of the magic. Great world development and the map is helpful.

[Nichole Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in The Lightless Alchemist, and what a rush! Emotionally charged, heart wrenching, with humor and steam. I cannot wait for the next one!

[Ashleigh (tiger_reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars!!! 🤩

Continuing on Sage’s journey to ultimately do what is right for the kingdom she loves has been a rollercoaster of emotions and deep character development!

Being able to see more locations in this world, seeing old friends and new being introduced kept me saying just one more chapter 😅

You will not be disappointed continuing with this trilogy and I am counting down the days until I get to dive into book 3 🥰

Thank you Hayley for this Arc in exchange for a honest review ❤️

[Hell of a book (Helga) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story continues. It picks up right where The Alchemy before the dawn left off with a small overlap if you read the epilogue. It starts of with a lot of heartbreak. And although I usually ignore the trigger warnings, in this particular case I would advice readers to do look at them as the subject may be sensitive to some.

In this book we get to explore a bit more of the world that is built which I absolutely loved. We meet new people and get more into depth with old characters. The betrayal hits a high and a new slow burn romance is developing.

I so wanted to love this book seeing as I devoured the alchemy before the dawn. But everything I loved about that book sort of vanished in this one.

First the FMC. Where I loved how smart, resourceful and determined she was in the first book, I found her to be a bit too stubborn in this one. The lack of trust she has for everyone felt like one big miscommunicating trope. If only they would talk!
The pacing in the first book was immaculate making it I couldn’t put the book down, but in this book, it slows down frequently. Making me put it aside. Especially during the trip there wasn’t enough happening for me. It felt like the stakes in this book were low. It was also a shame that the villain, who i "loved to hate" in book 1, hardly came out. I missed the threat. And last, the new MMC. Although I loved the whole pirate vibe and he was a lovable character, the slow burn romance felt like a copy of the last one. The same setting. The same attraction. It was like reading the first, but with a different character. I had a hard time feeling it because there was no particular reason for the attraction, other than him being attracted to her.

I did love that we got to explore a bit of the world that the author created but the story itself just didn’t hit the way I hoped it would. The book did end on another cliffhanger and I am still curious to see how the story ends. mostly because The Alchemy before the dawn was one of my most favorite reads this year. I gave this book 3.25 stars.